Great Rivers Panoramic Road

Take a journey through the beautiful Great Rivers Panoramic Road, a 124 km route that begins in Kampsville, USA and ends in St. Louis, USA. Along the way, you will visit the charming towns of Chautauqua and Alton. In Chautauqua, you can explore the historic sites, including the Chautauqua National Wildlife Refuge. In Alton, you will find a variety of restaurants and shops, as well as the majestic Mississippi River. The best time to drive this road trip is during the spring and summer months, when the scenery is at its most vibrant. The road conditions are generally good, making this a suitable trip for all drivers. This trip can be managed on a moderate budget, making it an ideal choice for those looking for a memorable road trip experience.

Kampsville, Illinois is the perfect starting point for the “Great Rivers Panoramic Road”. Located on the banks of the mighty Mississippi River and Illinois River, Kampsville features a range of picturesque sights and attractions. From historic sites and museums to outdoor adventures, there is something for everyone. For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is Lambert-St. Louis International Airport (STL). Car rental options are available at the airport for those wishing to drive the “Great Rivers Panoramic Road”. Kampsville is home to a variety of historic sites and museums, such as the Kampsville Historic District, the Kampsville Courthouse, and the Kampsville Indian Museum. Visitors can also explore the natural beauty of the area, with activities such as fishing, kayaking, or canoeing. Outdoor enthusiasts will also find plenty of opportunities to explore the area’s hiking, biking, and camping trails. Kampsville is the perfect starting point for the “Great Rivers Panoramic Road”. With its historic sites and museums, outdoor adventures, and beautiful scenery, Kampsville is sure to create a memorable experience for all who visit.

Embark on a breathtaking road trip from Kampsville to Chautauqua, a 34mi drive taking fewer than 1 hours. Start your journey in Kampsville, a small village located in the heart of the Illinois River Valley. Visit the historic Kampsville Courthouse, built in 1858, and the Kampsville Landing, where the first settlers of the area landed in 1832. Then, take a short drive east to Chautauqua. Here, you can explore the Chautauqua National Wildlife Refuge, a paradise for birdwatchers, and the Chautauqua Conservation Area, where you can enjoy nature trails and fishing. You can also visit the historic Chautauqua Opera House, which dates back to the late 1800s. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready for an amazing and unforgettable road trip from Kampsville to Chautauqua!

Welcome to the Chautauqua - Alton road trip stage! This 13-mile journey will take you less than an hour to complete. On your way, you will be able to admire the beauty of Chautauqua and Alton. In Chautauqua, you can explore the Chautauqua Institution and its historic amphitheater, the Chautauqua Lake, and the Chautauqua County Fairgrounds. In Alton, you can visit the Audubon Center and Sanctuary, the Alton Marina, and the Alton Museum of History and Art. All these places offer plenty of exciting activities and attractions that will make your road trip even more enjoyable. To make the most of your journey, you can also visit some of the local restaurants and campgrounds. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

Welcome to the Alton to St. Louis road trip! This is one of the stages of an amazing tour and it will take you from Alton to St. Louis, a distance of 30 miles that can be covered in less than an hour. Start your journey in Alton, a city located along the banks of the Mississippi River and known for its historical sites, such as the Elijah P. Lovejoy Monument, which commemorates the abolitionist and newspaper editor, and the Alton Museum of History and Art, which showcases the city’s history. The next stop is St. Louis, a vibrant city with a rich history and plenty of attractions. Visit the iconic Gateway Arch, the tallest monument in the United States, or take a stroll through the beautiful Forest Park. Don't forget to visit the St. Louis Zoo, one of the best zoos in the country. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

St. Louis is an exciting destination at the end of the Great Rivers Panoramic Road. St. Louis is a vibrant city that offers a variety of attractions for visitors. The Gateway Arch, located in the downtown area, is a great place to start exploring the city. Climb to the top of the 630-foot-tall monument and take in the breathtaking views of the city. Other must-see attractions in St. Louis include the Saint Louis Zoo, the Missouri Botanical Garden, and the City Museum. For those interested in history, St. Louis is home to the Jefferson National Expansion Memorial, which houses the Museum of Westward Expansion. Here, visitors can learn about the Lewis and Clark Expedition and the Louisiana Purchase. Another popular attraction is the Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis, which features an impressive collection of mosaics. Sports fans should visit Busch Stadium, home to the St. Louis Cardinals, or Scottrade Center, home to the St. Louis Blues. Both venues offer great food and entertainment, as well as an exciting atmosphere. For those looking for a unique dining experience, St. Louis has plenty of options. From fine dining restaurants to food trucks, the city has something to offer everyone. The closest international airport to St. Louis is Lambert-St. Louis International Airport (STL). This airport provides many direct flights to and from various destinations around the world. No matter what your interests are, St. Louis is sure to provide a memorable experience. From its historic attractions to its delicious cuisine, the city has something to offer everyone. So come explore St. Louis at the end of the Great Rivers Panoramic Road.

Before you set off

Embark on the captivating Great Rivers Scenic Route, a picturesque 124 km (77 miles) journey that stretches from the quaint village of Kampsville to the vibrant city of St. Louis in the United States. This route is a part of the Great River Road network, a collection of Roads following the course of the Mississippi River for 3,000 miles through 10 states. Along the way, travelers are treated to an array of historical landmarks and charming towns like Chautauqua and Alton, each offering its own unique slice of Americana.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

• Chautauqua: Nature enthusiasts should not miss the Chautauqua National Wildlife Refuge, which serves as a vital resting and feeding spot for migratory birds. The refuge is part of the Illinois River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge Complex, a haven for numerous wildlife species.
• Alton: Rich in history and lore, Alton boasts the Alton Museum of History and Art and the National Great Rivers Museum. Visitors can also experience the Great River Road's scenic byways, which provide stunning views of the Mississippi River. Alton's fascinating past includes a connection to the legendary jazz musician Miles Davis, who was born here, and the city's role as a site for abolitionist activity during the Civil War era.

Best Time to Go:

Travelers will find the route most enchanting during the spring and summer months when the weather is mild and nature is in full bloom. This timeframe offers the best conditions for exploring the lush landscapes and engaging in outdoor activities along the riverbanks.

Potential Risks:

While the Great Rivers Scenic Route is typically safe for travel, it is wise to remain vigilant for common driving hazards. Seasonal weather patterns, such as spring flooding or summer storms, can affect Road conditions, so it is advisable to check local weather updates before setting out.

Facts for Roadtrippers:

This Road Trip is an excellent choice for those seeking an affordable adventure, with minimal costs associated with enjoying the natural and historical sites along the way. The journey is suitable for drivers of all levels, offering easy navigation and a well-marked route.

A good choice for:

The Great Rivers Panoramic Road is a treasure trove for Roadtrippers, seamlessly blending cultural depth with the serene beauty of the American landscape. It is an accessible and moderately priced adventure that provides a window into the region's rich heritage and the majestic Mississippi River's role in shaping it.